Science says you look better after one drink

In a study published last month in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism, researchers at the University of Bristol in the U.K. put 40 students to the test.

Researchers took photos of participants before they grabbed a drink, then again after they consumed one drink, then once more after they had a second drink.

A separate group of sober students judged the snapshots side-by-side and picked which one they thought was the most attractive. Most participants found the photo after one drink was more attractive than the sober photo, and the two-drink photo was considered the least attractive.

In summary, researchers say the study suggests "beer goggles" can go both ways.

"The present study suggests that alcohol consumption also increases ratings of attractiveness of the consumer by other people. That is, in addition to perceiving others as more attractive, an alcohol consumer may also be perceived by others as more attractive, and therefore receive greater sexual interest from potential mates.

While it's not completely clear why alcohol improves someone's looks, the researchers think that the slight pupil dilation and rosy cheeks may make a subject more appealing. So if you're on a first date, it might be best to stop after the first drink.